Las Urracas

Las Urracas is an exposed reef break in the Iquique area known for very consistent surf and world-class, hollow left-hand waves. The takeoff and landing are over shallow reef/rock, and the spot is repeatedly described as powerful and demanding for experienced surfers only. Conditions are most clean when winds come from the east to east-northeast, which sources associate with offshore flow. One spot guide also reports that conditions are often blown: monthly stats show a large share of blown conditions compared with clean periods, so choosing your wind window is critical even when swell looks good. The wave is reported to start working around roughly 1.5 to 2 meters and to hold up to about 4 meters and beyond. Typical rides are commonly in the 50 to 150 meter range, with longer rides on good days (up to roughly 150 to 300 meters). Best tide position is described as low and mid tide, with rising tide also noted as productive—though low tide can be especially hazardous because the reef is shallower. Safety-wise, Las Urracas has clearly identified hazards including sea urchins and rocks/sharp reef sections, plus strong rip-current risk near the reef edge during larger swells. Booties are strongly recommended for entering and exiting, and the lack of lifeguards means surfers should be prepared to self-manage risk and swim strategy in a competitive lineup.